Wednesday, 30 October 2013

Campaigning to pardon Alan Turing with John and Cllr James Hennigan at Manchester Pride 2012

Chorlton Lib Dem MP John Leech has welcomed the bill to pardon Alan Turing passing through the Lords.

John will now propose the bill be given a second reading in the House of Commons on the 29th of November.

John Leech said today,
“Alan Turing was a hero to me and lots of people. I am glad that the bill to pardon him is closer to becoming law. It has passed the Lords with cross party support, and I hope that we will see the same in the Commons.”

And John praised Lord John Sharkey, who ably guided the bill through the Lords,
“John has done a great job steering this through the Lords. I hope that the Commons follows suit as soon as possible.”

The Council has recieved a planning application for Chorlton News between Chorlton Bookshop and Croma to be converted into a Cafe/Bar:103494/FO/2013/S1 502-504 Wilbraham Road Chorlton Manchester M21 9AW Change
of Use of ground floor newsagents ( Class A1) and 1st and 2nd floor
bedsits (Class C3) to cafe/bar at ground and first floor with ancillary
storage in basement and 2nd floors (Class A4) and creation of outdoor
seating area to front and rear, together with installation of 2no. air
conditioning units to rear and associated elevational alterations

You can find out more information about the proposals on the
City Council's Planning Portal at http://tinyurl.com/yv6lex or by
contacting the South Area Planning Group Manager - Roger Hall; Tel:
(0161) 234 4536; email: r.hall@manchester.gov.uk

This application has raised a fair ammount of concern locally. I've submitted the representation below to the Planning Committee outlining the views that have been expressed to me so far. There is still time to make your own representation by writing to the Dedicated Planning Officer, Melanie Tann (m.tann@manchester.gov.uk). Please feel free to
contact me on (07947383740; cllr.v.chamberlain@manchester.gov.uk) if you
wish to discuss the application and please also send me a copy of any
representation you make.

"There is a general feeling amongst those that have contacted me that Chorlton already has enough bars and pubs and is being taken over by the night time economy (particularly Bars and Takeaways) at the expense of independent and diverse shops. One resident said: "Chorlton already has more bars than it can sustain. I strongly object to planning permission being given to another." Indeed this application is situated in a former community newsagents and potentially threatens the vitality and viability of Chorlton Bookshop. The Manchester Evening News reported: "Bar opening in Chorlton 'could force popular book shop to close". A resident wrote: " do not think I am alone when I say that Chorlton people need the one bookshop in the area far more than we need yet another bar. To approve this application would be one more step on the road to making Chorlton a monocultural wasteland."

Residents are also concerned that the premises is situated within a conservation area and diagonally opposite the Grade II listed Lloyds Hotel. Some residents feel that if the application is approved it would "detract from the quality and spoil the nature of the conservation area".

There is concern that noise from the premises would detrimentally impact residents in the immediate area, particularly those living adjacent, at Chorlton Heights and at the south end of Oswald Road.

There is concern about the loss of residential accommodation as it is in high demand in Chorlton and "gives life to the street when shops are closed".

Some residents have told me that they do not have a problem with the application and support seeing a derelict shop brought back into use"

The unveiling of the bench for Harry Goodwin is taking place this Saturday at 10am in Chorlton precinct. This will also be the day of the first Chorlton Art Market which is also taking place in the precinct.

Nathan Birks, a friend of Harry Goodwin’s, will be making a short speech and a toast to Harry.

Monday, 21 October 2013

I have received notification that an application has been received by
the City Council for a new Premises Licence at: 482 Wilbraham Road, Manchester, M21 9AS

The application is for a Betting Premises Licence, to authorise the premises to be used for the provision of facilities for betting, by making or accepting bets, by acting as a betting intermediary or by providing other facilities for the making or accepting of bets.

If you have any comments, you can make these directly to The Licensing Unit (e-mail:
premises.licensing@manchester.gov.uk) or write to: The Licensing Unit,PO Box 532, Manchester, M60 2LA by 07/11/13. The Licensing Authority may only
consider a representation relating to the effect of the grant of the
licence on the licensing objectives, which are: Prevention of crime and
disorder; Public Safety; Prevention of public nuisance and the
Protection of children from harm.

As a local Councillor I can
make representations to support local residents; as can John Leech MP
(leechj@parliament.uk; 434 3334). If you wish for us to do so, please
let us know and send us a copy of any representation you may be making.

Below are recently submitted Planning Applications in the Chorlton area.
You can find out more information about any of the proposals on the
City Council's Planning Portal at http://tinyurl.com/yv6lex or by
contacting the South Area Planning Group Manager - Roger Hall; Tel:
(0161) 234 4536; email: r.hall@manchester.gov.uk . You can also make a
Planning representation (in support or opposition) to Mr Hall or the
designated planning officer for each application. Please feel free to
contact me on (07947383740; cllr.v.chamberlain@manchester.gov.uk) if you
wish to discuss any application and please also send me a copy of any
representation you make.

103754/TMCOU/2013/S1 Serendipitea 105 Beech Road Chorlton Manchester M21 9EQTemporary change of use from Class A1(shops) to a flexible use as Class A3 (restaurants and cafes) for a single continuous period of 2 years, beginning on the date the building will be used as Class A3 - 01/10/13 until 01/10/15, in accordance with the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (Amendment) (England) Order 2013 - Class D

103760/FH/2013/S1 20 High Lane Chorlton Manchester M21 9DFErection of single-storey rear extension and installation of dormer to rear to form additional living accommodation and elevational alterations

I know I don’t usually send you videos of the Prime Minister. But this one – where he tells me it would be impossible to raise the personal allowance to £10,000 – is worth watching again. Especially now the Tories are desperately trying to take credit for delivering it!

When you hear Conservative activists out and about, claiming that the £700 income tax cut was their party’s doing, remind them of this:

Not only did they oppose the policy before the last election; in the 2012 Budget, when I wanted to go further and faster to reach our £10,000 target, the Conservatives only agreed to it in return for a tax cut for top earners - cutting the top rate of income tax to 45p.

So while the Liberal Democrats fought for tax cuts for millions, the Conservatives prioritised tax cuts for millionaires.

Now I hear they’re considering a promise, at the next election, to raise the personal allowance to £12,500. That’s a great idea. So good, in fact, that we’ve already had it. This is almost identical to the Liberal Democrats’ plan to raise the personal allowance to the minimum wage – a commitment we agreed at our Spring Conference last year and which I want to see at the heart of our manifesto in 2015.

The Liberal Democrats are, and will continue to be, the party of fair taxes.

Wednesday, 16 October 2013

The letter, drawings and questionnaire below have gone out from the City Council to residents near Footpath 181 to update them about what has happened and announce the start of a consultation. If you would like a copy of the questionnaire or plans please let me know. There will be a ‘drop-in’ session to discuss the consultation and options at: St Barnabas Hall, Hardy Lane, M21 7GX on Thursday 07th November between 13.15 and 19.45.The drop in session will be held for the local community to come along and discuss the consultation options for Footpath 181 with City Council Officers. You will also be able to drop off any completed questionnaires or alternative options you may have. Let me know your thoughts.

"You may be aware of recent events surrounding a public right of way (Footpath 181), the route of which runs between Claude Road and Barlow Moor Road, and partly along Chorlton Brook.This public right of way has been unused for over sixty years. The Council recently made an attempt to close it formally. The closure proposal was opposed by some local residents and right of way organisations. The case was considered at Manchester Magistrates Court on 1st to 3rd July 2013. Whilst the Council was granted the closure between Anchorside Close and Barlow Moor Road, the Judge did not accept that the section between Claude Road and Anchorside Close was‘unnecessary for public use’ and ruled that this section of the footpath should not be closed.The Council is required to ensure that the part of Footpath 181 that has not been closed by the Court can be used. Before we begin work to ensure that the path can be used, we want to consult with local residents, businesses and interested parties on possible diversions of the path. The consultation will close on 23rd December 2013. The Council will consider the responses to this consultation and make a decision in January 2014 as to whether to promote a diversion of the remainder of Footpath 181. If a diversion is promoted then a formal procedure for the diversion of the footpath will be commenced. This procedure will include an opportunity for interested parties to object to the diversion and may result in the diversion being refused.We would like to hear your views on each of the options (described in full below and illustrated on the attached drawings) and also your comments / ideas on any other routes that you feel should be considered. Please complete the questionnaire, making sure that you complete the name and address section of the questionnaire (we want to ensure that the local community and other relevant stakeholders have their say.)

What is the consultation asking?Since the ruling, a number of formal notices have been served to the Council, ordering obstructions to be removed from - and the overall clearance of - the footpath. We have, therefore, contacted those individuals and / or businesses, who have ‘built’ across the footpath, asking that any obstructions are removed.We recognise that use of the footpath will bring about significant problems for some householders who have invested in their gardens and extended over the path.This consultation aims to determine whether there is a better route than the current right of way.What are the options?There are five separate options. We want to know whether any of options 1, 2, 3 4 or 5 are acceptable alternatives to the ‘Default Option’. The ‘Default Option’ - The drawing showing the ‘Default Option “ indicates a route along the existing line of Footpath 181 as shown on the Council’s Definitive Map avoiding numbers 9 and 11 Anchorside Drive. This line will run along the edge of Chorlton Brook, through the gardens adjacent to numbers 9 and 11 Anchorside Close and onto Anchorside Close.

If none of the alternative options are chosen by the Council then this ‘Default Option’ will have to be the option that is implemented.

Options 1 & 2 - The drawing showing ‘Alternative Option 1 and 2’ indicates a complete bypass of what is the current line of Footpath 181. Both 1 and 2 involve the construction of a new footbridge across Chorlton Brook, with a new access point to be formed on Anchorside Close. Option 1 then shows a new route formed through the rear of Meade Manor and Option 2 shows a new route to be formed through the front of Meade Manor, along the existing line of the brook. Both options will create good links to Metrolink.

Option 3 - ‘Alternative Option 3’ again indicates a complete bypass of what is the current line of Footpath 181. This option involves the construction of a new footbridge across Chorlton Brook, with a new access point to be formed on Anchorside Close. A new access point will also be formed through a fence and onto Rainbow Close (subject to agreement and approval). Again, creating good links to Metrolink.

Option 4 - ‘Alternative Option 4’ indicates the existing line of Footpath 181 with a minor diversion around Anchorside Close. The footpath will remain intact for almost its entire length but will be accessed through a new opening to the north of Anchorside Close. The diversion will pass around Anchorside Close and rejoin the current line of the footpath at the side of 9 and 11 Anchorside Close.

Option 5 - Alternative Option 5 shows a path following the route of the default option with a minor diversion through a new opening in the existing fence to the rear of Arden Court with the footpath emerging onto Oakhouse Drive.If you would like to discuss any of the options with council officers, we’ll be organising a drop in event at St Barnabas Hall, Hardy Lane, M21 7GX on Thursday 07th November between 13.15 and 19.45 and would urge you to come along. The closing date of this consultation is 23rd December 2013, however, with the Christmas period being a busy time for mail deliveries we will be accepting returns until Monday the 30th December. Please make sure that you’ve completed and returned your questionnaire to us by this date using the return envelope provided.

We will contact you again in early 2014 with the results of this consultation. In the meantime, if you have any questions, you can contact either of the officers detailed below. Thank you for your help with this process.

Kids and dogs battle it out in the ring - 20% off food and drink - Treason and Plot hits the Jockey - Old-Lady Wisehands – All keep us entertained this Autumn at the Horse and Jockey. We hope you can join us for our Autumn line up……

!LOOK OUT FOR THE LAUNCH OF OUR NEW PUB MENU & BRITISH FUSION RESTAURANT THIS NOVEMBER!

The Horse and Jockey is hosting a Halloween pageant for dogs and children and will crown one lucky winner with either a hamper of chocolate goodies or vouchers for Chorlton’s very own dog boutique - Betty and Butch. The Halloween pageant welcomes children of all ages and dogs of all sizes to dress-up in their best Halloween themed outfits to impress the pageant's judges. FIND OUT MORE HERE!

Feeding family and friends for less this month as the deal of the month goes to 20% off food and drink ordered together. Not forgetting it’s still 2 for 1 on mains on Mondays from 7pm onwards.

Halloween Stories and FrightThursday 31st October at 6pm The Witches’ Vault, The Horse and Jockey Chorlton

Chorlton’s very own witch, Old-Lady Wisehands invites children of all ages to come and listen to her spooky stories in her cavern. As well as stories and games, she will be bringing ingredients from her own witch kitchen for an interactive tale-telling session. Come down if you dare!

Bonfire night will see flocks of people gather on Chorlton Green to enjoy not one, but two of Chorlton's largest firework displays, put on by the on the Green. Chorlton's only microbrewery Bootleg Brewery will also be launching their limited edition treacle stout; Treason & Plot. The drink will be a perfect accompaniment to the array of food that will be available on the Green. Those less tempted by ale will be able to get their fill of mulled cider and wine while Treason and Plot tasters will be handed-out.

Below are recently submitted Planning Applications in the Chorlton area.
You can find out more information about any of the proposals on the
City Council's Planning Portal at http://tinyurl.com/yv6lex or by
contacting the South Area Planning Group Manager - Roger Hall; Tel:
(0161) 234 4536; email: r.hall@manchester.gov.uk . You can also make a
Planning representation (in support or opposition) to Mr Hall or the
designated planning officer for each application. Please feel free to
contact me on (07947383740; cllr.v.chamberlain@manchester.gov.uk) if you
wish to discuss any application and please also send me a copy of any
representation you make.

103629/FO/2013/S1 103 Cundiff Road Chorlton Manchester M21 8ES
Change of use of existing ground floor retail unit (Class A1) and flat above into four bedroom dwelling and the erection of three-storey, four bedroom dwelling on land to the rear 103710/FH/2013/S1 102 Brantingham Road Manchester M16 8NA
Erection of two-storey rear extension to form additional living accommodation

Manchester wants to end hate crime by building on the city's reputation for celebrating diversity. You can help do this by holding an event or activity in your neighbourhood during Hate Crime Awareness Week. Your event should raise awareness of hate crime, including what it is and how people can report it.

Your group can apply for a grant of up to £200 to assist you to put on an event or activity in your neighbourhood. Events must take place between Monday 20 January 2014 and Sunday 26 January 2014.

Funding can be used to cover the costs of room hire, decorations, speakers, food, arts/crafts, or any reasonable costs for holding an activity/event as part of Manchester Hate Crime Awareness Week.

When I moved to Chorlton in 2006, I immediately knew I had made the right decision. I came here on the last day of June, the day before Beech Road Festival, and Chorlton looked beautiful in the sunshine of that incredible summer.

But then I saw the precinct and I can remember thinking how stange it was that a suburb with a reputation like Chorlton had such a run down shopping centre. It didn't make any sense to me. I couldn't understand how it had been left in an almost half finished state, complete with peeling paintwork and empty units. I feel very passionate about trying to maintain Britain's highstreets and, in particular, independent businesses. I genuinely fear that there will be no independent shops by the time my 2 year old is a teenager. My biggest fear is Chorlton turing into 'Everywhereville' and losing the wonderful vibe it currently has.

Since having my daughter and leaving full time employment, I have found myself spending more time in the precinct and thinking about how easily it could be improved with just a little imagination and effort. I believe that there are a lot of people who think this, but beause of the ongoing plans for redevelopment, people have thought that there is no point in doing anything with what we currently I have.

For me, I just become tired of waiting for something to happen. At the beginning of this year I began emailing the estate managers of the precinct to find out what was actually happening with it and to see if there was anything that the community could do in the mean time.

Following on from a 3 week pop up shop in one of the empty units, I have been given permission to organise a monthly Art and Design Market and to raise funds to improve the aesthetic look of the precinct. I have spent the last few months seeking out fantastic local artists and designers to both sell at the market and to get involved with the beautification plans.

I have set up a campaign on Kickstarter with the aim to raise £2,500 which will be used to fund murals and new wooden benches. The aim for the first bench will be in honour of local photographer, Harry Goodwin, who passed away in September. The campaign can be viewed at www.chorltonart.org.Although this money will not cover everything that we hope to achieve, it will get the ball rolling and will hopefully enable us to obtain further funding.

If anyone would like further information, or would like to get involved in the project, please email Alice at chorltonartmarket@gmail.com

Alice set up the Chorlton Design Collective with the aim to run pop up
shops to promote local artists and designers and to use unused community
spaces for artistic projects.

Last year Chorlton High School held a very successful Winter Fayre. All the proceeds that the school raised were donated to their linked school in Chisila, Africa. They raised over £1,500 which the small community school in zambia used to train local volunteers, and buy much needed resources for pupils.

Chorlton High School are holding another Winter Fayre this year on Saturday 14th December 2013, 11am-1pm. The cost of a stall is £10 for two tables (tables are provided). Last year they had a vast array of stalls such as cakes, jams, honey, homemade wrapping paper, toys, sweets, gifts, jewellery, plants, cards etc. To enable Chorlton High School to have the success they had last year they would be grateful for your support if you were to book a table.

If you are interested and would like to book a stall or know more about the event, please email admin@chorltonhigh.manchester.sch.uk

Below are recently submitted Planning Applications in the Chorlton area.
You can find out more information about any of the proposals on the
City Council's Planning Portal at http://tinyurl.com/yv6lex or by
contacting the South Area Planning Group Manager - Roger Hall; Tel:
(0161) 234 4536; email: r.hall@manchester.gov.uk . You can also make a
Planning representation (in support or opposition) to Mr Hall or the
designated planning officer for each application. Please feel free to
contact me on (07947383740; cllr.v.chamberlain@manchester.gov.uk) if you
wish to discuss any application and please also send me a copy of any
representation you make.

I have received notification that an application has been received by
the City Council for a new Premises Licence for premises at:Tea Hive, 53 Manchester Road, Chorlton, Manchester, M21 9PW

The application for a new premises licence has been made as Tea Hive wishes to extend the area for licensable activities to the first floor of the premises. The current licence held by Tea Hive is for the ground floor and outdoor seating area. The activities and hours requested on this application are the same as currently permitted (summarised below). The applicant requests that conditions attached to the current licence are included on the new licence if granted:

Proposed trading hours for the supply of alcohol for consumption on the premises only:Mon to Fri 0800 to 2300Sat and Sun 0900 to 2300

Proposed opening hours for the premises:Mon to Fri 0800 to 2300Sat and Sun 0900 to 2300

If you have any comments, you can make these directly to The Licensing Unit
(e-mail:
premises.licensing@manchester.gov.uk) or write to: The Licensing Unit,
Regulatory & Enforcement Services, Premises Team, PO Box 271,
Manchester, M18 8YU by 24/10/13. The Licensing Authority may only
consider a representation relating to the effect of the grant of the
licence on the licensing objectives, which are: Prevention of crime and
disorder; Public Safety; Prevention of public nuisance and the
Protection of children from harm.

As a local Councillor I can
make representations to support local residents; as can John Leech MP
(leechj@parliament.uk; 434 3334). If you wish for us to do so, please
let us know and send us a copy of any representation you may be making.

Would you like to donate a book/ or two to the Barlow Moor Community Association?

For the first time this year, Chorlton Book Festival includes a Chorlton Book Award for children (see poster image above) and as part of this initiative, is running an appeal for donations of new books.

Chorlton Bookshop is selling the books (at much reduced cost) for this initiative and has a box for these donations in store which will be given to BCMA for children on the Barlow Moor/ Merseybank Estate.

The new Community Centre (BMCA) http://barlowmoorca.co.uk/ on the Estate will be also doing an outreach library which will need books too so if you wish to donate a book, please get in touch with Chorlton Bookshop on Wilbraham road. They have the list of shortlisted books for the Chorlton Book Award for Children and can advise.

You might also like to inscribe your name/ business name as a donor (or your company stamp).